"But I also noted that they may have been doing it to try to quell the mob attacking the Capitol, i.e., at that point they knew they were in a losing proposition, so they went to alternative tactics."
You may recall me actually TELLING you that, because I am familiar with the area nd knew that, for example,the criticisms of them moving barricades, allegedly to let people into an area were actually being moved to direct people OUT of the confined grounds to the surrounding streets.
Same with images of officers inviting the, into certain areas, when in fact, they were "welcoming" them towards the hallways that led back away from the chambers and evacuation routes.
"Looking at the videos of the Capital Police trying to protect the Capitol from the mob, why should they not be praised for their service?"
Yeah, Nancy and friends (and y'all) come around after more footage got out, but the initial reporting treated police like they were all coconspirators in on the whole thing.
I had a Lieutenant at one time that would just stand up in the roll call room and yell. He didn't single out individuals, he just chewed out all of us collectively. Of course, the hardest working officers listened, internalized the criticism and felt defensive. The lousy officers that truly deserved it barely noticed, walked out smiling, unaffected.
That is what I did here yesterday.. Just like my Lt, I yelled at everyone, without paying mind that that the people who deserved to hear it weren't even on this thread. Some of the finest people on the DR listened and took to heart what I said and reacted defensively. Your responses were warranted, and I overreacted. To you folks, and I think you know who you are, I offer my most sincere apology. I appreciate you.